The earthquakes shook more than the ground five years ago; social lives also took a hit as many of the city’s beloved watering holes and slinky restaurants and bars lay ruined. Fast forward five years and the Christchurch hospo scene has seen a massive resurgence transitioning from container bars and pop ups through to swanky post-quake affairs of old. With bar and restaurant levels in the city higher than before the earthquakes and more venues on the horizon, Cityscape caught up with some of Christchurch’s renowned hospitality operators and some new faces on how the city’s nightlife scene has changed, how to create a desirable venue and what we can expect in the future.
TONY ASTLE, STEALTH HOSPITALITY
The driving force behind some of the city’s most beloved and highly regarded dining and drinking spots dating back to popular underground Lichfield Street haunt The Licker Lounge back in the mid-90s,...

Expect the return of languorous, sunny summer arvo sessions in the city following the opening of Dux Central on the 16th of September. Reborn on the old Twisted Hop site in Poplar Lane, Dux De Lux redux Dux Central combines the elements of its much-missed predecessor with a few new aces it has up its sleeve.
The four-bar venue comprises Dux De Lux replacement Brew Bar, an earthy, London-esque craft beer-topia that features a sunny courtyard and timber bar where you’ll find old favourites like Black Shag and Ginger Tom on tap – and they’re just part of a bodacious selection (175 to be exact) of craft beers stocking an expansive, three-storied beer fridge (some top shelf entries crack the $70 mark!).
Next door, swank sophistication reigns supreme at the Emerald Room, where jewel tones, black and gold and slick feature wallpapering all ups the city’s overall wine-bar-glam levels –...

With a drinks menu boasting over 100 rums and 70 crafted cocktails, you can be transported to South America at Casa Publica - the latest bar and restaurant to open in the central city (Cnr of Armagh and New Regent Streets, in the old Flying Burrito Brothers building).
Open seven days from 3pm until late, Casa Publica oozes glamour with its intimate booths and oh-so sexy lighting. It’s the second hospitality hub for James Murdoch (Carlton Bar) that will also provide live music every night.
So grab a couple of friends, find a booth and enjoy the atmosphere, the thirst-quenching assistance of the expert bartenders, and the menu's rustic small plates, which are ideal for sharing…or not!
www.casapublica.co.nz...

Big congratulations go to the winners in the 2015 Christchurch Hospitality Awards!
Cafe of the Year, Barista of the Year (Chris Penny) and Crew Member of the Year(Chris Penny): Hello Sunday
Central City Establishment of the Year: King of SnakeBartender of the Year: Louis Dyer, Civil and NavalManager of the Year: Dale Palea'ae, C1 EspressoChef of the Year: Jonny Schwass, Harlequin Public House
Regional Establishment of the Year, Restaurant of the Year and Supreme Establishment of the Year: Roots
Supreme Emerging Establishment: Boo Radley’s
Pop-Up Establishment of the Year: Tiki TacoBar of the Year: Dux Live
Beverage Supplier and Supreme Supplier: Three Boys Brewery
Specialty Supplier of the Year: Canterbury CheesemongersGoods & Services Wholesaler of the Year: Trents
...